Rheumatology app

[Always_Hurting]

hey, I’ve finally got an appointment for 8th June after not being referred in Dec 21 like I was told I had been and waited a year in pain for nothing.

I’ve not been diagnosed with fibromyalgia but feel this would explain how I’ve been feeling for several years. And I’d really like to not be in limbo with not knowing why I always have something wrong and am in pain.

can anyone give me any tips to get the most out of my appointment and what I should ask etc.

TIA it’s greatly appreciated!

Hope you have a lovely bank holiday.

Ree x

[Always_Hurting]

Thank you

[CM1EDSUK]

Hi - I agree, take a short 'potted' history of how you've been over the past few years. I'd also suggest, & something which I've always done (altho you want to get your point across that you feel it might be fibro), ask for their opinion first, as I feel it's diplomatic. If you don't agree, ask why do you think it's a, b, or c, & might you not 'consider' fibro, if they don't come up with that?

Then the ball is in their court to say what they think, but you've politely listened first, which I think goes a long way, & after all you are a team working out your diagnosis. The rheumatologist needs your input, but you need to also listen before asking any questions.

Hope you get some answers, & it would be great to know how you get on. I'm with you in thinking getting a diagnosis helps.

[Always_Hurting in reply to CM1EDSUK]

Yes very true to see what they think first. I’ll be happy to hopefully get some answers & get the ball rolling into hopefully getting some ‘treatment’ to help 🤞🏻

Will definitely update after app, thank you 😊

[Loobielu]

My appointment with the rhyumatologist was very positive. She was very kind and diagnosed fibro at that first appointment without any fight. Try not to worry, they are there to help. Best of luck x

[Sleepyhead_]

Hi there if I can offer anything it would be to write a list of symptoms and what you want to ask and with each question asked tick it off its what I will be doing when I finally get to see them hope this helps 🦋

[Always_Hurting]

Hi again, apologies for the delayed update.

I saw a really pleasant lady who was MSK physio but with an interest in rheumatology/fibro.

Writing my symptoms and a few examples of my struggles really helped as I struggle to remember and explain what I need to say.

She said it definitely seemed as though it is fibromyalgia but couldn’t offer any suggestions on medication as not what she does so hopefully am being referred now to the pain clinic for the next step.

Just to be heard and told I’m not imagining the pain or be shrugged off was really wonderful.

Hope everyone is doing alright 😊